The Kogi State Government has named Yabagi Mohammed, a proficient multimedia journalist, as the Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Aliyu Umar Yusuf.
In an official communication endorsed by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Folashade Ayoade Arike, the appointment was made in recognition of the journalist’s unwavering dedication to the administration and his demonstrated professional prowess.
Yabagi, renowned for his skills as a writer, editor, blogger, and multimedia expert, hails from Lokoja in the Lokoja Local Government Area of Kogi State.
Awaiting the release of his Masters of Science (MSc) result in Mass Communication from the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Yabagi obtained his undergraduate degree in the same field from Kogi State University, now known as Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba. His educational journey also includes a National Diploma in Mass Communication from Kaduna Polytechnic, Kaduna.
Commencing his journalism journey shortly after completing secondary education, Yabagi began at the Kogi State Broadcasting Corporation, initially as a freelance contributor and later as an intern.
Driven by a growing passion for writing and effective information dissemination, he transitioned from aspiring to be a broadcaster to pursuing print journalism after gaining experience during his Industrial Training with The Graphic Newspaper.
Following his year-long training, The Graphic Newspaper retained Yabagi, providing him the opportunity to further his education by enrolling in university.
Notably, Yabagi has a notable history as a former correspondent for The Nation Newspaper, where he was responsible for covering educational matters, specifically focusing on higher education campuses within Kogi State. His role encompassed reporting on significant events, crafting compelling features, conducting interviews, and analyzing pertinent issues for the prominent Lagos-based national publication.
Having served as an editor, writer, and publisher for the Kogi-based news blog Insidestory, Yabagi’s journey led him to assume the role of head of the Information and Public Relations Unit at the Intercountry Centre for Oral Health for Africa (ICOH), a notable position he relinquished upon accepting the CPS appointment.
Yabagi’s accomplishments are further underscored by his recognition as a runner-up in the 2015 Nigerian Writers Awards in the Best Writers Category (Campus). He also secured the inaugural Most Consistent News Reporter of the Year Award during the first edition of the Kogi Social Media Awards in 2018, along with other commendations.
Continuously seeking self-improvement, Yabagi has participated in numerous journalism training programs facilitated by esteemed organizations and institutions. He is a married individual and a proud parent.
In conclusion, the appointment of Yabagi Mohammed as Chief Press Secretary reflects the Kogi State Government’s commitment to engaging accomplished professionals to contribute to effective communication and governance.
